Newcastle residents are being cautioned against walking with substantial amounts of money following a recent incident where a woman fell victim to a robbery, losing approximately R55,000 in the central business district (CBD).
The Newcastle Crime Fighter Task Team, represented by member Imran Ghafoor, disclosed that the incident unfolded on Saturday, 30 December 2023, as the woman was strolling along Murchison Street.
According to the report, a man wielding a knife approached her, forcibly taking her belongings and the significant sum of money.
It is speculated that the money was part of a stokvel sum that the woman received. A stokvel is when a group of people contribute a sum of money every month, which is then divided at a specific time.
Promptly responding to the distress call, law enforcement swung into action. “Information was received, and it was followed up, with the suspect being found and arrested in the taxi rank area on the same day,” Ghafoor stated
Thanks to the joint efforts of Newcastle SAPS and the Newcastle Fighter Crime Task Team, law enforcement was able to charge the man for more than just the robbery.
“Upon searching him, the suspect was found in possession of drugs. A total of 44 parcels of whoonga and one large parcel of crystal meth was recovered,” reported Ghafoor.
Reflecting on the incident, Ghafoor emphasised, “People are encouraged to avoid carrying large sums of money on them, and if they do, it is best to have someone with you at the time.”
The incident serves as a reminder of the vulnerability associated with openly carrying substantial amounts of cash. As Newcastle residents digest this cautionary tale, we invite you to share your thoughts in the comment section below.
